December 16, 1944
Sixty-five years ago today, the Battle of the Bulge began, the biggest land battle that the Americans would take part in during World War II. Fought during the worst winter in memory, the Allies went up against the desperate, last gasp of the Germans, the Americans, British and Canadians lulled into complacency by Christmas coming around the corner and getting a rude awakening on the morning of December 16th as German panzers clanked and troops began attacking under-manned outposts.
Despite horrendous losses, the Americans and their allies eventually pushed the Germans back, and a month later the enemy was in full retreat back toward Germany. It was the beginning of the end for the Third Reich as the Americans, British and Canadians pushed from the West and the Russians from the East.
The infamous "Nuts!" reply from American commander Anthony McAuliffe to the Germans demanding surrender entered popular consciousness, McAuliffe's men surrounded at Bastogne but holding the town miraculously, stalling the Germans and helping to turn the tide.
Amazing stories have come out of the Battle of the Bulge. Just a little remembrance on this cold winter's day while we're snug and cozy in our warm houses.
Despite horrendous losses, the Americans and their allies eventually pushed the Germans back, and a month later the enemy was in full retreat back toward Germany. It was the beginning of the end for the Third Reich as the Americans, British and Canadians pushed from the West and the Russians from the East.
The infamous "Nuts!" reply from American commander Anthony McAuliffe to the Germans demanding surrender entered popular consciousness, McAuliffe's men surrounded at Bastogne but holding the town miraculously, stalling the Germans and helping to turn the tide.
Amazing stories have come out of the Battle of the Bulge. Just a little remembrance on this cold winter's day while we're snug and cozy in our warm houses.